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WO1999000638A1 - Device for provoking an avalanche - Google Patents

Device for provoking an avalanche Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1999000638A1
WO1999000638A1 PCT/IB1998/000972 IB9800972W WO9900638A1 WO 1999000638 A1 WO1999000638 A1 WO 1999000638A1 IB 9800972 W IB9800972 W IB 9800972W WO 9900638 A1 WO9900638 A1 WO 9900638A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
foot
barrel
base
downstream end
ballast
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Ceased
Application number
PCT/IB1998/000972
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Jacob Schippers
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Technologie Alpine De Securite - Tas Sa
Technologie Alpine de Securite TAS SA
Original Assignee
Technologie Alpine De Securite - Tas Sa
Technologie Alpine de Securite TAS SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Technologie Alpine De Securite - Tas Sa, Technologie Alpine de Securite TAS SA filed Critical Technologie Alpine De Securite - Tas Sa
Priority to US09/446,240 priority Critical patent/US6374717B1/en
Priority to EP98924520A priority patent/EP0991912B1/en
Priority to AT98924520T priority patent/ATE205298T1/en
Priority to DE69801581T priority patent/DE69801581T2/en
Priority to CA002292812A priority patent/CA2292812C/en
Priority to JP50540099A priority patent/JP3956060B2/en
Publication of WO1999000638A1 publication Critical patent/WO1999000638A1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Ceased legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F42AMMUNITION; BLASTING
    • F42DBLASTING
    • F42D3/00Particular applications of blasting techniques

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an avalanche triggering device comprising a gas cannon, the upstream end of which is fixed to a base firmly anchored to the mountain, and the downstream end of which is carried by at least one foot so that the mouth of the barrel is arranged above the snowpack.
  • Avalanche triggering devices comprising a gas cannon fixedly mounted on a mountainside, the bottom of which is firmly anchored against a base made up of a concrete block and the mouth of which opens out above the snowpack. , such as those described in US Pat. No. 5,107,765. These guns are designed to trigger an avalanche in exposed areas, for example above ski resorts or residential areas. These devices are very effective in triggering avalanche flows in areas known as avalanche corridors, that is to say, mostly formed by steep gorges where the accumulation of snow occurs. quickly and can reach unstabilized critical masses. They have proven to be particularly effective on light and sparse snow layers which contain a large volume of air trapped in the snow crystals.
  • the blast caused by the detonation generates a wave effect with a strong initial compression followed by a trigger which breaks the snowpack and raises the snow mass sufficiently to trigger an avalanche flow.
  • the mouth of the barrel must be located above the snowpack.
  • the devices require a rigid and extremely solid anchorage to the side of the mountain, in particular by means of a concrete base which is anchored to the rock and which constitutes the rear seat of the actual gun.
  • the device comprises one or more feet which are also firmly anchored in the mountain.
  • the thrust exerted on the frontal area of the barrel reaches values of 80 or 160 tonnes depending on the model, and the forces which manifest themselves and which tend to undock these feet must be counteracted by reaction forces generated by the particularly robust anchoring.
  • the present invention proposes to overcome these drawbacks by offering an effective solution to the problems mentioned above, this solution also having the advantage of making it possible to lower the cost of installation on the site and considerably increase the longevity of the device.
  • the device as defined in the preamble and characterized in that the upstream end of the barrel is fixed to the base by a joint and in that the downstream end is ballasted, the foot being placed freely on a base made integral with the ground.
  • the downstream end of the barrel is ballasted by means of a ballast mounted in the vicinity of the mouth.
  • Said ballast may include a tank containing shot or concrete introduced through an opening formed on said tank.
  • downstream end of the barrel is ballasted by means of a ballast housed in the foot which supports this downstream end.
  • said base is hollow and said ballast is made up of shot or concrete.
  • the foot rests freely on a base rigidly anchored to the side of the mountain and is arranged substantially vertically and coupled to the barrel by an articulation with a horizontal axis.
  • the device comprises ignition means arranged in the vicinity of the upstream end of the barrel.
  • said ignition means comprise at least one spark plug connected to an ignition system comprising a pressure switch associated with a two-state microswitch, a capacitor, an electric battery and an igniter, this microswitch being arranged to set in communication with the capacitor with the igniter when it is in a first state and for putting the capacitor in communication with the battery when it is in its second state.
  • an ignition system comprising a pressure switch associated with a two-state microswitch, a capacitor, an electric battery and an igniter, this microswitch being arranged to set in communication with the capacitor with the igniter when it is in a first state and for putting the capacitor in communication with the battery when it is in its second state.
  • the device may also include a safety rope which connects the base to the foot.
  • said device comprises a stop pin arranged vertically in the base supporting the foot, said support base of the foot being made of concrete and comprising a steel sole covered with a rubber plate to absorb the fallout of said foot.
  • FIG. 1 represents a view of a first embodiment of the device according to the invention
  • FIG. 2 represents a view of a second embodiment of the device according to the invention
  • FIG. 3 represents a view of a detail of the device as represented by FIG. 2, and
  • FIG. 4 represents a detailed view of the ignition means equipping the device according to the invention.
  • the device 10 as shown essentially consists of a gas exploder 11 comprising a barrel 12, fixed by its upstream end to a base 13 and whose downstream end is supported by a foot 14.
  • This foot 14 rests on a base 15 consisting of a concrete block carrying a steel sole 9 covered with a rubber plate 16.
  • the base 13 also consists of a concrete block firmly anchored to the side of the mountain .
  • the barrel 12 is an elongated tubular piece comprising a rectilinear section 12a and a curved section 12b which constitutes the downstream end of the exploder and defines its mouth.
  • the upstream end is fixed to the base by a hinge 17 having a horizontal axis which allows relative pivoting of the barrel according to arrow A.
  • the foot 14 consists of a substantially cylindrical tubular element which is fixed to the curved section 12b of the barrel by means of an articulation 19 with a horizontal axis 20.
  • This articulation consists of a first pair of elements 21a, in the form of '' fans, which are fixed parallel on either side of the curved section 12b of the barrel 12 and a second pair of elements 21b, in the form of flanges, which are fixed parallel on either side of the upper part of the foot 14. These two pairs of elements are coupled together by means of the horizontal axis 20.
  • the foot 14 is ballasted for example by means of a mass of shot or concrete which is disposed inside the hollow tube which constitutes it.
  • the foot serves as a support for the barrel in the rest phase and it is suspended from this barrel at the time of a shot, when the downstream end of the barrel lifts under the effect of the blast of the explosion of the gas.
  • the purpose of the ballast is to limit the pivoting of the barrel in the direction of arrow A and to ensure the return of this foot to its initial position.
  • a safety line 22 connects the base of the foot 14 to the base 13.
  • This cable is on the one hand fixed to a flange 23 anchored in this base and on the other hand to a flange 24 fixed to the foot 14.
  • a pin d 'stop 25 is also fixed in the base 15 through the sole 9 and the rubber plate 16 to prevent, if necessary, the foot from falling from this base after a shot.
  • Ignition means 54 which will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 4, are mounted floating to avoid lightning problems and overcome the rear part of the barrel 12.
  • FIG. 2 Another embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 2.
  • the foot 114 is not ballasted, unlike foot 14 of Figure 1 and the ballast 115 intended to accelerate the fall of the mouth of the barrel after a shot and to prevent this barrel from rising too high under the action of forces generated by the blast of the explosion, mounted in the vicinity of the mouth of the barrel.
  • a ballast is mounted on the barrel near its mouth. It is preferably in the form of a tank 116 having an upper opening 117 into which it is possible to pour shot or concrete in sufficient quantities.
  • FIG. 3 represents a detail view illustrating the upstream part of the barrel 12 proper illustrated by FIG. 2, with the connection terminals 50 and 51 of two spark plugs, the nozzles 52 and 53 for supplying the combustible gas and oxygen and the ignition means 54.
  • a flexible conduit 55 connects these ignition means to the nozzle 53 for supplying oxygen.
  • a protective cover 56 is arranged so that it can be folded and adapted over these various members.
  • the ignition means 54 comprise a pressure switch 30 arranged to control two microswitches 31 and 32 with two states having three output terminals, namely a terminal C called common output, a terminal T called work terminal and a terminal R called the rest terminal.
  • the ignition means also comprise, in the example shown in which two spark plugs 26 and 27 are respectively provided to ensure the ignition of the mixture of detonating gas, two capacitors 33 and 34, two cells or batteries d accumulators 35 and 36 and two igniters 37 and 38.
  • the pressure switch 30 is connected to the oxygen supply conduit by the flexible conduit 55 or can be mounted directly on said conduit.
  • the microswitches 31 and 32 have two states.
  • the first state is obtained when no gas circulates in the conduits and there is no pressure in the pressure switch 30.
  • the capacitors 33 and 34 are then in closed circuit with the igniters 37 and 38, the battery / capacitor circuits being open.
  • the second state is obtained when one of the two gases circulating in the conduits creates a slight overpressure in the pressure switch 30, which causes a change of state of the microswitches 31 and 32 and the passage of the state rest at work.
  • the batteries 35 and 36 being connected in closed circuit to the capacitors 33 and 34 and the capacitor / igniter circuit being open, the capacitors are charged during the gas injection period.
  • the pressure on the membrane of the pressure switch 30 becomes zero and the microswitches 31 and 32 return to the idle state closing the capacitor / igniter circuit and opening the battery / circuit capacitor. Each capacitor then discharges completely into the corresponding igniter and causes a spark train on the spark plug concerned for approximately 4 to 5 s. The microswitches remain in this state until the next gas injection.
  • said first state is obtained when oxygen circulates in the pipe and creates, via the flexible hose 55, a pressure in the pressure switch 30. At the time of the discharge of the capacitors, the latter generate a train of sparks in the candles they fuel respectively.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Devices Affording Protection Of Roads Or Walls For Sound Insulation (AREA)
  • Emergency Lowering Means (AREA)
  • Vehicle Body Suspensions (AREA)
  • Eye Examination Apparatus (AREA)
  • Air Bags (AREA)
  • Valve Device For Special Equipments (AREA)
  • Noodles (AREA)
  • Portable Nailing Machines And Staplers (AREA)
  • Toys (AREA)

Abstract

The invention concerns a device (10) for provoking an avalanche comprising a gas gun (12) the end of which is fixed to a seat (13) solidly anchored to the mountain and the downstream end of which is borne by at least one leg (14) such that the mouth of the gun is arranged above the snow cover. The gun (12) upstream end is fixed to the seat (13) by an articulation (17), and the downstream end is ballasted, the leg (14) being mounted freely on a base (15) made integral with the ground. Said leg (14) is hollow and contains ballast consisting of chippings or concrete. Said gun (12) is further provided with ignition means (54) arranged upstream in its proximity and ensures the ignition of the detonating gas mixture.

Description

DISPOSITIF DE DECLENCHEMENT D'UNE AVALANCHEDEVICE FOR TRIGGERING AN AVALANCHE

Domaine techniqueTechnical area

La présente invention concerne un dispositif de déclenchement d'une avalanche comportant un canon à gaz dont l'extrémité amont est fixée à une embase solidement ancrée à la montagne, et dont l'extrémité aval est portée par au moins un pied de manière telle que l'embouchure du canon soit disposée au-dessus du manteau neigeux.The present invention relates to an avalanche triggering device comprising a gas cannon, the upstream end of which is fixed to a base firmly anchored to the mountain, and the downstream end of which is carried by at least one foot so that the mouth of the barrel is arranged above the snowpack.

Technique antérieurePrior art

On connaît des dispositifs de déclenchement des avalanches comportant un canon à gaz monté de façon fixe à flanc de montagne, dont le fond est solidement ancré contre une embase constituée d'un bloc en béton et dont l'embouchure débouche au-dessus du manteau neigeux, tels que ceux décrits dans le brevet américain US-A-5 107 765. Ces canons sont conçus pour déclencher une avalanche dans des zones exposées, par exemple au-dessus de stations de ski ou de zones d'habitation. Ces dispositifs sont très efficaces pour déclencher des coulées d'avalanches dans des zones connues comme des couloirs d'avalanches, c'est-à-dire constituées la plupart du temps par des gorges à forte pente où l'accumulation de la neige se fait rapidement et peut atteindre des masses critiques non stabilisées. Ils se sont révélés particulièrement efficaces sur les couches de neige légère et peu dense qui contiennent un volume important d'air emprisonné dans les cristaux de neige. Le souffle provoqué par la détonation engendre un effet de vague avec une forte compression initiale suivie d'une détente qui casse le manteau neigeux et soulève la masse neigeuse de façon suffisante pour déclencher une coulée d'avalanche. A cet effet l'embouchure du canon est obligatoirement située au- dessus du manteau neigeux.Avalanche triggering devices are known comprising a gas cannon fixedly mounted on a mountainside, the bottom of which is firmly anchored against a base made up of a concrete block and the mouth of which opens out above the snowpack. , such as those described in US Pat. No. 5,107,765. These guns are designed to trigger an avalanche in exposed areas, for example above ski resorts or residential areas. These devices are very effective in triggering avalanche flows in areas known as avalanche corridors, that is to say, mostly formed by steep gorges where the accumulation of snow occurs. quickly and can reach unstabilized critical masses. They have proven to be particularly effective on light and sparse snow layers which contain a large volume of air trapped in the snow crystals. The blast caused by the detonation generates a wave effect with a strong initial compression followed by a trigger which breaks the snowpack and raises the snow mass sufficiently to trigger an avalanche flow. For this purpose, the mouth of the barrel must be located above the snowpack.

Ces appareils nécessitent un ancrage rigide et extrêmement solide au flanc de la montagne, en particulier au moyen d'une embase en béton qui est ancrée au rocher et qui constitue l'assise arrière du canon proprement dit. Pour soutenir la partie frontale, voisine de l'embouchure du canon, le dispositif comporte un ou plusieurs pieds qui sont également ancrés solidement dans la montagne.These devices require a rigid and extremely solid anchorage to the side of the mountain, in particular by means of a concrete base which is anchored to the rock and which constitutes the rear seat of the actual gun. To support the front part, near the mouth of the barrel, the device comprises one or more feet which are also firmly anchored in the mountain.

Au moment du tir, la poussée qui s'exerce sur la zone frontale du canon atteint des valeurs de 80 ou 160 tonnes selon les modèles, et les forces qui se manifestent et qui tendent à désarrimer ces pieds doivent être contrecarrées par des forces de réaction générées par l'ancrage particulièrement robuste.At the time of firing, the thrust exerted on the frontal area of the barrel reaches values of 80 or 160 tonnes depending on the model, and the forces which manifest themselves and which tend to undock these feet must be counteracted by reaction forces generated by the particularly robust anchoring.

De tels ancrages sont extrêmement coûteux et ne résistent bien, que si le sol dans lequel ils sont réalisés est stable et résistant. Dans des sols meubles, instables ou n'offrant pas la résistance requise, les pieds supportant l'embouchure du canon ont tendance à se désancrer sous l'effet des tractions successives engendrées à chaque tir. Comme ces dispositifs sont généralement installés dans des sites difficiles à atteindre, voire dangereux, les réparations sont coûteuses et complexes.Such anchors are extremely expensive and only resist well if the soil in which they are made is stable and resistant. In loose soil, unstable or not offering the required resistance, the feet supporting the mouth of the barrel tend to become detached under the effect of successive pulls generated with each shot. Since these devices are usually installed in hard-to-reach and even dangerous locations, repairs are expensive and complex.

Exposé de l'inventionStatement of the invention

La présente invention se propose de pallier ces inconvénients en offrant une solution efficace aux problèmes mentionnés ci-dessus, cette solution ayant en outre l'avantage de permettre d'abaisser le coût de l'installation sur le site et d'augmenter considérablement la longévité du dispositif.The present invention proposes to overcome these drawbacks by offering an effective solution to the problems mentioned above, this solution also having the advantage of making it possible to lower the cost of installation on the site and considerably increase the longevity of the device.

Ce but est atteint par le dispositif tel que défini en préambule et caractérisé en ce que l'extrémité amont du canon est fixée à l'embase par une articulation et en ce que l'extrémité aval est lestée, le pied étant posé librement sur un socle rendu solidaire du terrain. Selon une première variante de réalisation, l'extrémité aval du canon est lestée au moyen d'un lest monté au voisinage de l'embouchure.This object is achieved by the device as defined in the preamble and characterized in that the upstream end of the barrel is fixed to the base by a joint and in that the downstream end is ballasted, the foot being placed freely on a base made integral with the ground. According to a first alternative embodiment, the downstream end of the barrel is ballasted by means of a ballast mounted in the vicinity of the mouth.

Ledit lest peut comporter une cuve contenant de la grenaille ou du béton introduit par une ouverture ménagée sur ladite cuve.Said ballast may include a tank containing shot or concrete introduced through an opening formed on said tank.

Selon une deuxième variante, l'extrémité aval du canon est lestée au moyen d'un lest logé dans le pied qui supporte cette extrémité aval.According to a second variant, the downstream end of the barrel is ballasted by means of a ballast housed in the foot which supports this downstream end.

De préférence, ledit pied est creux et ledit lest co istitué de grenaille ou de béton.Preferably, said base is hollow and said ballast is made up of shot or concrete.

Dans toutes les formes de réalisation, le pied repose librement sur un socle rigidement ancré au flanc de la montagne et est disposé sensiblement verticalement et couplé au canon par une articulation d'axe horizontal.In all embodiments, the foot rests freely on a base rigidly anchored to the side of the mountain and is arranged substantially vertically and coupled to the barrel by an articulation with a horizontal axis.

De façon avantageuse, le dispositif comporte des moyens d'allumage disposés au voisinage de l'extrémité amont du canon.Advantageously, the device comprises ignition means arranged in the vicinity of the upstream end of the barrel.

De préférence, lesdits moyens d'allumage comportent au moins une bougie d'allumage raccordée à un système d'allumage comprenant un pressostat associé à un microrupteur à deux états, un condensateur, une pile électrique et un allumeur, ce microrupteur étant agencé pour mettre en communication le condensateur avec l'allumeur lorsqu'il est dans un premier état et pour mettre le condensateur en communication avec la pile lorsqu'il est dans son deuxième état.Preferably, said ignition means comprise at least one spark plug connected to an ignition system comprising a pressure switch associated with a two-state microswitch, a capacitor, an electric battery and an igniter, this microswitch being arranged to set in communication with the capacitor with the igniter when it is in a first state and for putting the capacitor in communication with the battery when it is in its second state.

Le dispositif peut également comporter un filin de sécurité qui relie l'embase au pied.The device may also include a safety rope which connects the base to the foot.

De préférence, ledit dispositif comporte une broche d'arrêt disposée verticalement dans le socle supportant le pied, ledit socle d'appui du pied étant en béton et comportant une semelle en acier recouverte d'une plaque en caoutchouc pour amortir la retombée dudit pied.Preferably, said device comprises a stop pin arranged vertically in the base supporting the foot, said support base of the foot being made of concrete and comprising a steel sole covered with a rubber plate to absorb the fallout of said foot.

Description sommaire des dessinsBrief description of the drawings

La présente invention sera mieux comprise en référence à la description d'exemples de réalisation préférés et aux dessins annexés, donnés à titre d'exemples non limitatifs et dans lesquels :The present invention will be better understood with reference to the description of preferred embodiments and to the accompanying drawings, given by way of non-limiting examples and in which:

La figure 1 représente une vue d'une première forme de réalisation du dispositif selon l'invention,FIG. 1 represents a view of a first embodiment of the device according to the invention,

la figure 2 représente une vue d'une deuxième forme de réalisation du dispositif selon l'invention,FIG. 2 represents a view of a second embodiment of the device according to the invention,

la figure 3 représente une vue d'un détail du dispositif tel que représenté par la figure 2, etFIG. 3 represents a view of a detail of the device as represented by FIG. 2, and

la figure 4 représente une vue de détail des moyens d'allumage équipant le dispositif selon l'invention.FIG. 4 represents a detailed view of the ignition means equipping the device according to the invention.

Meilleure manière de réaliser l'inventionBest way to realize the invention

En référence à la figure 1 , le dispositif 10 tel que représenté se compose essentiellement d'un exploseur à gaz 11 comprenant un canon 12, fixé par son extrémité amont à une embase 13 et dont l'extrémité aval est supportée par un pied 14. Ce pied 14 repose sur un socle 15 constitué d'un bloc en béton portant une semelle en acier 9 recouverte d'une plaque en caoutchouc 16. L'embase 13 est également constituée d'un bloc en béton solidement ancré au flanc de la montagne. Le canon 12 est une pièce tubulaire allongée comprenant un tronçon rectiligne 12a et un tronçon incurvé 12b qui constitue l'extrémité aval de l'exploseur et définit son embouchure. L'extrémité amont est fixée à l'embase par une articulation 17 ayant un axe horizontal qui autorise un pivotement relatif du canon selon la flèche A.With reference to FIG. 1, the device 10 as shown essentially consists of a gas exploder 11 comprising a barrel 12, fixed by its upstream end to a base 13 and whose downstream end is supported by a foot 14. This foot 14 rests on a base 15 consisting of a concrete block carrying a steel sole 9 covered with a rubber plate 16. The base 13 also consists of a concrete block firmly anchored to the side of the mountain . The barrel 12 is an elongated tubular piece comprising a rectilinear section 12a and a curved section 12b which constitutes the downstream end of the exploder and defines its mouth. The upstream end is fixed to the base by a hinge 17 having a horizontal axis which allows relative pivoting of the barrel according to arrow A.

Le pied 14 est constitué d'un élément tubulaire sensiblement cylindrique qui est fixé au tronçon incurvé 12b du canon au moyen d'une articulation 19 à axe horizontal 20. Cette articulation se compose d'une première paire d'éléments 21a, en forme d'éventails, qui sont fixés parallèlement de part et d'autre du tronçon incurvé 12b du canon 12 et d'une seconde paire d'éléments 21b, en forme de brides, qui sont fixés parallèlement de part et d'autre de la partie supérieure du pied 14. Ces deux paires d'éléments sont couplées entre elles au moyen de l'axe horizontal 20.The foot 14 consists of a substantially cylindrical tubular element which is fixed to the curved section 12b of the barrel by means of an articulation 19 with a horizontal axis 20. This articulation consists of a first pair of elements 21a, in the form of '' fans, which are fixed parallel on either side of the curved section 12b of the barrel 12 and a second pair of elements 21b, in the form of flanges, which are fixed parallel on either side of the upper part of the foot 14. These two pairs of elements are coupled together by means of the horizontal axis 20.

Le pied 14 est lesté par exemple au moyen d'une masse de grenaille ou de béton qui est disposée à l'intérieur du tube creux qui le constitue. Dans la pratique, le pied sert d'appui au canon en phase de repos et il est suspendu à ce canon au moment d'un tir, lorsque l'extrémité aval du canon se soulève sous l'effet du souffle de l'explosion des gaz. Le lest a pour but de limiter le pivotement du canon dans le sens de la flèche A et d'assurer le rappel de ce pied dans sa position initiale.The foot 14 is ballasted for example by means of a mass of shot or concrete which is disposed inside the hollow tube which constitutes it. In practice, the foot serves as a support for the barrel in the rest phase and it is suspended from this barrel at the time of a shot, when the downstream end of the barrel lifts under the effect of the blast of the explosion of the gas. The purpose of the ballast is to limit the pivoting of the barrel in the direction of arrow A and to ensure the return of this foot to its initial position.

Un filin de sécurité 22 relie la base du pied 14 à l'embase 13. Ce filin est d'une part fixé à une bride 23 ancrée dans cette embase et d'autre part à une bride 24 fixée au pied 14. Une broche d'arrêt 25 est par ailleurs fixée dans le socle 15 à travers la semelle 9 et la plaque de caoutchouc 16 pour empêcher, le cas échéant, le pied de tomber de ce socle après un tir. Des moyens d'allumage 54, qui seront décrits plus en détail en référence à la figure 4, sont montés flottants pour éviter les problèmes de foudre et surmontent la partie arrière du canon 12.A safety line 22 connects the base of the foot 14 to the base 13. This cable is on the one hand fixed to a flange 23 anchored in this base and on the other hand to a flange 24 fixed to the foot 14. A pin d 'stop 25 is also fixed in the base 15 through the sole 9 and the rubber plate 16 to prevent, if necessary, the foot from falling from this base after a shot. Ignition means 54, which will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. 4, are mounted floating to avoid lightning problems and overcome the rear part of the barrel 12.

Une autre forme de réalisation est illustrée par la figure 2. La différence majeure de cette variante par rapport à la précédente est que le pied 114 n'est pas lesté, contrairement au pied 14 de la figure 1 et que le lest 115 destiné à accélérer la retombée de l'embouchure du canon après un tir et à éviter que ce canon ne s'élève trop haut sous l'action des forces générées par le souffle de l'explosion, est monté au voisinage de l'embouchure du canon. Un lest est monté sur le canon à proximité de son embouchure. Il se présente de préférence sous la forme d'une cuve 116 ayant une ouverture supérieure 117 dans lequel on peut déverser de la grenaille ou du béton en quantités suffisantes.Another embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 2. The major difference of this variant compared to the previous one is that the foot 114 is not ballasted, unlike foot 14 of Figure 1 and the ballast 115 intended to accelerate the fall of the mouth of the barrel after a shot and to prevent this barrel from rising too high under the action of forces generated by the blast of the explosion, mounted in the vicinity of the mouth of the barrel. A ballast is mounted on the barrel near its mouth. It is preferably in the form of a tank 116 having an upper opening 117 into which it is possible to pour shot or concrete in sufficient quantities.

Les autres composants du dispositif qui sont similaires à ceux qui ont déjà été décrits ou qui seront décrits plus en détail en référence aux figures suivantes portent ou porteront les mêmes numéros de référence.The other components of the device which are similar to those which have already been described or which will be described in more detail with reference to the following figures bear or will bear the same reference numbers.

La figure 3 représente une vue de détail illustrant la partie amont du canon 12 proprement dit illustré par la figure 2, avec les bornes de raccordement 50 et 51 de deux bougies d'allumage, les embouts 52 et 53 d'amenée du gaz combustible et de l'oxygène et les moyens d'allumage 54. Un conduit flexible 55 relie ces moyens d'allumage à l'embout 53 d'amenée de l'oxygène. Un capot de protection 56 est agencé pour pouvoir être replié et adapté par- dessus ces différents organes.FIG. 3 represents a detail view illustrating the upstream part of the barrel 12 proper illustrated by FIG. 2, with the connection terminals 50 and 51 of two spark plugs, the nozzles 52 and 53 for supplying the combustible gas and oxygen and the ignition means 54. A flexible conduit 55 connects these ignition means to the nozzle 53 for supplying oxygen. A protective cover 56 is arranged so that it can be folded and adapted over these various members.

En référence à la figure 4, les moyens d'allumage 54 comprennent un pressostat 30 agencé pour commander deux microrupteurs 31 et 32 à deux états ayant trois bornes de sortie, à savoir une borne C appelée sortie commune, une borne T appelée borne de travail et une borne R appelée borne de repos. Les moyens d'allumage comprennent par ailleurs, dans l'exemple représenté dans lequel deux bougies d'allumage 26 et 27 sont respectivement prévues pour assurer la mise à feu du mélange de gaz détonant, deux condensateurs 33 et 34, deux piles ou batteries d'accumulateurs 35 et 36 et deux allumeurs 37 et 38. Le pressostat 30 est relié au conduit d'amenée d'oxygène par le conduit flexible 55 ou peut être monté directement sur ledit conduit. Les microrupteurs 31 et 32 ont deux états. Le premier état, dit état de repos, est obtenu quand aucun gaz ne circule dans les conduits et qu'il n'y a pas de pression dans le pressostat 30. Les condensateurs 33 et 34 sont alors en circuit fermé avec les allumeurs 37 et 38, les circuits piles/condensateurs étant ouverts. Le deuxième état, dit état de travail, est obtenu lorsqu'un des deux gaz circulant dans les conduits crée une légère surpression dans le pressostat 30, ce qui provoque un changement d'état des microrupteurs 31 et 32 et le passage de l'état de repos à celui de travail. Les piles 35 et 36 se trouvant raccordées en circuit fermé aux condensateurs 33 et 34 et le circuit condensateur/allumeur étant ouvert, les condensateurs se chargent pendant la durée d'injection des gaz.With reference to FIG. 4, the ignition means 54 comprise a pressure switch 30 arranged to control two microswitches 31 and 32 with two states having three output terminals, namely a terminal C called common output, a terminal T called work terminal and a terminal R called the rest terminal. The ignition means also comprise, in the example shown in which two spark plugs 26 and 27 are respectively provided to ensure the ignition of the mixture of detonating gas, two capacitors 33 and 34, two cells or batteries d accumulators 35 and 36 and two igniters 37 and 38. The pressure switch 30 is connected to the oxygen supply conduit by the flexible conduit 55 or can be mounted directly on said conduit. The microswitches 31 and 32 have two states. The first state, known as the quiescent state, is obtained when no gas circulates in the conduits and there is no pressure in the pressure switch 30. The capacitors 33 and 34 are then in closed circuit with the igniters 37 and 38, the battery / capacitor circuits being open. The second state, called the working state, is obtained when one of the two gases circulating in the conduits creates a slight overpressure in the pressure switch 30, which causes a change of state of the microswitches 31 and 32 and the passage of the state rest at work. The batteries 35 and 36 being connected in closed circuit to the capacitors 33 and 34 and the capacitor / igniter circuit being open, the capacitors are charged during the gas injection period.

Dès que l'injection des gaz dans l'exploseur 11 est terminée, la pression sur la membrane du pressostat 30 devient nulle et les microrupteurs 31 et 32 reviennent à l'état de repos fermant le circuit condensateur/allumeur et ouvrant le circuit pile/condensateur. Chaque condensateur se décharge alors complètement dans l'allumeur correspondant et provoque un train d'étincelles sur la bougie concernée pendant environ 4 à 5 s .Les microrupteurs restent dans cet état jusqu'à la prochaine injection de gaz.As soon as the injection of gases into the exploder 11 is complete, the pressure on the membrane of the pressure switch 30 becomes zero and the microswitches 31 and 32 return to the idle state closing the capacitor / igniter circuit and opening the battery / circuit capacitor. Each capacitor then discharges completely into the corresponding igniter and causes a spark train on the spark plug concerned for approximately 4 to 5 s. The microswitches remain in this state until the next gas injection.

Le fait de prévoir deux bougies n'est pas limitatif. En effet une seule bougie pourrait suffire pour assurer la mise à feu. Toutefois, les règles de sécurité plaident en faveur du doublage du système d'allumage tel que prévu.The fact of providing two candles is not limiting. Indeed a single candle could be enough to ensure the ignition. However, safety rules argue in favor of doubling the ignition system as planned.

Dans la pratique, ledit premier état est obtenu lorsque l'oxygène circule dans la conduite et crée, par l'intermédiaire du flexible 55, une pression dans le pressostat 30. Au moment de la décharge des condensateurs, ces derniers génèrent un train d'étincelles dans les bougies qu'ils alimentent respectivement. In practice, said first state is obtained when oxygen circulates in the pipe and creates, via the flexible hose 55, a pressure in the pressure switch 30. At the time of the discharge of the capacitors, the latter generate a train of sparks in the candles they fuel respectively.

Claims

REVENDICATIONS 1. Dispositif pour le déclenchement d'une avalanche comportant un canon à gaz (12) dont l'extrémité amont est fixée à une embase (13) solidement ancrée à la montagne et dont l'extrémité aval est portée par au moins un pied (14) de manière telle que l'embouchure du canon soit disposée au-dessus du manteau neigeux, caractérisé en ce que l'extrémité amont du canon (12) est fixée à l'embase (13) par une articulation (17), et en ce que l'extrémité aval est lestée, le pied (14) étant posé librement sur un socle (15) rendu solidaire du terrain.1. Device for triggering an avalanche comprising a gas cannon (12) whose upstream end is fixed to a base (13) firmly anchored to the mountain and whose downstream end is carried by at least one foot ( 14) in such a way that the mouth of the barrel is disposed above the snowpack, characterized in that the upstream end of the barrel (12) is fixed to the base (13) by a joint (17), and in that the downstream end is ballasted, the foot (14) being placed freely on a base (15) made integral with the ground. 2. Dispositif selon la revendication 1 , caractérisé en ce que l'extrémité aval du canon est lestée au moyen d'un lest (115) monté au voisinage de l'embouchure.2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the downstream end of the barrel is ballasted by means of a ballast (115) mounted in the vicinity of the mouth. 3. Dispositif selon la revendication 2, caractérisé en ce que le lest comporte une cuve (116) contenant de la grenaille ou du béton introduit par une ouverture (117) ménagée sur ladite cuve.3. Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the ballast comprises a tank (116) containing shot or concrete introduced through an opening (117) formed on said tank. 4. Dispositif selon la revendication 1 , caractérisé en ce que l'extrémité aval du canon est lestée au moyen d'un lest logé dans le pied (14) qui supporte cette extrémité aval.4. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the downstream end of the barrel is ballasted by means of a ballast housed in the foot (14) which supports this downstream end. 5. Dispositif selon la revendication 4, caractérisé en ce que le pied (14) est creux et contient un lest constitué de grenaille ou de béton.5. Device according to claim 4, characterized in that the foot (14) is hollow and contains a ballast consisting of shot or concrete. 6. Dispositif selon la revendication 1 , caractérisé en ce que le pied (14) repose librement sur un socle (15) rigidement ancré au flanc de la montagne.6. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the foot (14) rests freely on a base (15) rigidly anchored to the side of the mountain. 7. Dispositif selon la revendication 1 , caractérisé en ce que le pied est disposé sensiblement verticalement et couplé au canon (12) par une articulation (19) d'axe horizontal (20). 7. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the foot is disposed substantially vertically and coupled to the barrel (12) by an articulation (19) with a horizontal axis (20). 8. Dispositif selon la revendication 1 , caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte des moyens d'allumage (54) disposés au voisinage de l'extrémité amont du canon.8. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises ignition means (54) arranged in the vicinity of the upstream end of the barrel. 9. Dispositif selon la revendication 8, caractérisé en ce que les moyens d'allumage (54) comportent au moins une bougie d'allumage (26) raccordée à un système d'allumage comprenant un pressostat (30) associé à un microrupteur (31) à deux états, un condensateur (33), une pile électrique (35) et un allumeur (37), ledit microrupteur étant agencé pour mettre en communication le condensateur avec l'allumeur lorsqu'il est dans un premier état et pour mettre le condensateur en communication avec la pile lorsqu'il est dans son deuxième état.9. Device according to claim 8, characterized in that the ignition means (54) comprise at least one spark plug (26) connected to an ignition system comprising a pressure switch (30) associated with a microswitch (31 ) in two states, a capacitor (33), an electric battery (35) and an igniter (37), said microswitch being arranged to put the capacitor in communication with the igniter when it is in a first state and to put the capacitor in communication with the battery when it is in its second state. 10. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte un filin de sécurité (22) qui relie l'embase (13) au pied (14).10. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a safety rope (22) which connects the base (13) to the foot (14). 11. Dispositif selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce qu'il comporte une broche d'arrêt (25) disposée verticalement dans le socle (15) supportant le pied.11. Device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a stop pin (25) disposed vertically in the base (15) supporting the foot. 12. Dispositif selon la revendication 6, caractérisé en ce que le socle (15) d'appui du pied (14) est en béton et comporte une semelle en acier (9) recouverte d'une plaque en caoutchouc (16) pour amortir la retombée dudit pied. 12. Device according to claim 6, characterized in that the base (15) for supporting the foot (14) is made of concrete and comprises a steel sole (9) covered with a rubber plate (16) to cushion the fall of said foot.
PCT/IB1998/000972 1997-06-26 1998-06-22 Device for provoking an avalanche Ceased WO1999000638A1 (en)

Priority Applications (6)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US09/446,240 US6374717B1 (en) 1997-06-26 1998-06-22 Device for provoking an avalanche
EP98924520A EP0991912B1 (en) 1997-06-26 1998-06-22 Device for provoking an avalanche
AT98924520T ATE205298T1 (en) 1997-06-26 1998-06-22 DEVICE FOR TRIGGERING AN AVALANCHE
DE69801581T DE69801581T2 (en) 1997-06-26 1998-06-22 DEVICE FOR RELEASING AN AVALANCHE
CA002292812A CA2292812C (en) 1997-06-26 1998-06-22 Device for provoking an avalanche
JP50540099A JP3956060B2 (en) 1997-06-26 1998-06-22 Avalanche starting device

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9708246A FR2765321B1 (en) 1997-06-26 1997-06-26 DEVICE FOR TRIGGERING AN AVALANCHE
FR97/08246 1997-06-26

Publications (1)

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WO1999000638A1 true WO1999000638A1 (en) 1999-01-07

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EP (1) EP0991912B1 (en)
JP (1) JP3956060B2 (en)
AT (1) ATE205298T1 (en)
CA (1) CA2292812C (en)
DE (1) DE69801581T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2163278T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2765321B1 (en)
WO (1) WO1999000638A1 (en)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2925152B1 (en) * 2007-12-14 2013-06-28 Technologie Alpine De Securite T A S DEVICE FOR TRIGGERING AVALANCHES
DE102009037705B4 (en) 2009-08-18 2014-03-27 Geräte- und Vorrichtungsbau Spitzner OHG Method and device for triggering avalanches
FR2953922B1 (en) 2009-12-10 2011-12-09 Technologie Alpine De Securite Tas DEVICE FOR TRIGGERING AVALANCHES
FR2958739B1 (en) * 2010-04-09 2012-05-11 Technologie Alpine De Securite Tas AVALANCHE RELEASE DEVICE
FR2964732B1 (en) 2010-09-14 2013-06-14 Alp Artifices PROJECTILE FOR AVALANCHE TRAPPING
US8596929B2 (en) * 2011-07-05 2013-12-03 James R. Hughes Avalanche control system and method
US11333474B2 (en) * 2016-08-07 2022-05-17 Explosive Alternatives, Inc. Apparatus and method for blasting
US12332039B1 (en) 2024-02-17 2025-06-17 Alpine Snowpack Management LLC Avalanche triggering apparatus

Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5107765A (en) 1988-03-03 1992-04-28 Jacob Schippers Process and device for triggering an avalanche

Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US5107765A (en) 1988-03-03 1992-04-28 Jacob Schippers Process and device for triggering an avalanche

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ATE205298T1 (en) 2001-09-15
JP2002506512A (en) 2002-02-26
DE69801581D1 (en) 2001-10-11
FR2765321A1 (en) 1998-12-31
FR2765321B1 (en) 1999-09-17
ES2163278T3 (en) 2002-01-16
JP3956060B2 (en) 2007-08-08
CA2292812A1 (en) 1999-01-07
DE69801581T2 (en) 2002-07-11
EP0991912A1 (en) 2000-04-12
US6374717B1 (en) 2002-04-23
EP0991912B1 (en) 2001-09-05
CA2292812C (en) 2006-09-12

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